Bernarda Raquel Gonzales

Bernarda Raquel Gonzales, a beacon of gentle strength and unwavering love, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at the age of 88.

She was preceded in death by Mario A. Gonzales Sr., Felicia Sandoval, Mario Gonzales Jr., Michael Johnson, and Edgar A. Gonzales.

Bernarda is survived by Mario and Lily Gonzales, Lydia Begay, Imelda Skaggs, also 37 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Born on August 20, 1935, in the vibrant heart of Guatemala, Bernarda's life was a testament to her resilience and dedication. Her journey led her to forge a new path in a new land, where she worked tirelessly to provide a solid foundation for her family.

Bernarda's passion for life was evident in the care she took of the flowers in her garden and the plants that graced her home. Each blossom stood as a symbol of her nurturing spirit and the beauty she cultivated in the world around her. Her hands, skilled and loving, were also renowned for creating culinary delights. A great cook, Bernarda's kitchen was a place of warmth and togetherness, where the aromas of her delicious meals brought comfort and joy to all who were fortunate enough to taste them.

Her story is one of courage and independence. Leaving her homeland of Guatemala, Bernarda embarked on a journey to build a life of stability and opportunity for her children. She had an unwavering commitment to ensuring they had access to the blessings of a good life. Her dedication was not only to her immediate family but extended to all who knew her, touching numerous lives with her generosity and compassion.

Those who knew Bernarda would describe her as loving, generous, and cheerful. Her presence was a soothing balm to those in her company, and her actions were guided by a profound sense of caring for others. She lived her life as an embodiment of these virtues, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and selflessness that will continue to inspire and guide her loved ones.

Bernarda Raquel Gonzales' memory will be cherished and honored by all who were graced by her love and friendship. Her spirit, as tender and beautiful as the gardens she so lovingly tended, will forever bloom in the hearts of those she has left behind. As we say farewell to this remarkable woman, we celebrate the extraordinary life she led and the countless ways she enriched our lives.

Bernarda’s Life Celebration will begin with a visitation on Monday, March 25, 2024, at 11:00am at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St. SW, 87102. Rosary will be recited at 1:00pm. Final Viewing will be held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 8:30am. Service will begin at 9:00am. Bernarda will be laid to rest following the service at Mount Calvary Cemetery located at 1900 Edith Blvd. NE, 87102.

Pallbearers will be Emmanuel Gonzales, Joshua Gonzales, Alfonso Johnson, Servando Fierro, Ignacio Aragon, and Juan Grijalva.